You can volunteer to help at the Mother Theresa Missionaries of Charity for a week, a month or longer if you so desire. Probably the most famous missionary in recent history Mother Theresa dedicated her life to helping the poor of Calcutta. To register as a volunteer simply turn up on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Be sure to bring your passport.

Bangalore - splash at the Wonder La Water Park

Split into 2 different wet and dry parts this park consist of 22 dry rides and 12 wet rides as well as 9 rides for the little ones, making it definitely India’s best theme park. Along with the rides there is also a laser show, wave pools and a virtual reality show. A great time will be had by the whole family, but try to go midweek to avoid the crowds during the weekends.

Bangalore - stroll the Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Created in 1740 the park consists of local fauna and rare varieties from Afghanistan and Persia. Especially beautiful is the rose garden when in season. Also in the garden is the Lal Bagh rock which is thought to be one of the oldest rock formations in the world. A great place for a walk with the family or a picnic. Do not miss the special displays on Independence Day and Republic Day.

Chennai - take a walk along Marina Beach

This is one of the world’s largest beaches and a popular place for locals to gather especially at the weekends. Watch the local fishermen bring in the day’s catch and sample it at one of the many food stalls that are along the beach. The buildings along the road adjacent to the beach are reminiscent of the British Raj. Be warned this is not a swimming beach.

Delhi - explore Qutab Minar world heritage site

The 2nd most visited tourist site in India a tour around the Qutb Minar is worth the time and effort. The tower is a 72.5m high red sandstone tower built in the 3rd century and is the tallest in India. Also at the site is an iron pillar built around the same time that is so pure it has never rusted.

Delhi - visit the Landmark India Gate

Built in 1931 and 42m high India Gate is a victory arch and is inscribed with the names of the 90,000 Indian soldiers that died during the 1st World War, 1919 Afghan campaign and the North West Frontier campaigns. The Gate comes alive at night time when it is floodlit and becomes the meeting place for youngsters and families playing music and cricket.

Goa - try your Luck at the Floating Casino Royale

The speedboat out to the floating casino sets the scene for the trip or a helicopter if you are a really high roller. With three floors of gaming tables there is everything here that the casual or serious gambler could want. Fifty gambling tables spread over 3 floors means the serious gambler has numerous table options which allow for concentration. This casino can be very busy at the weekends.

Kolkata - enjoy the Evolution Theme Park

A full day of learning for people of all ages is possible at the Science City which has information on everything from the dinosaurs, evolution of man through to India’s involvement in the space race. Science City is full of interactive videos and hands on experiences whilst the maritime centre depicts scenes from India’s maritime history. There are rides in the outside area and a fun maze suited for all age groups.

Kolkata - walk the tranquil Park Street Cemetery

For one of India’s more unusual walks stroll around the cemetery and take in the names of the founders of Calcutta. Many of the surnames are still connected to important people in Calcutta today. Burials had taken place in the grounds between 1768 and 1895 and some of the tombs are some of the most ornate in India. Guides are available on request.

Mumbai - watch the sunsets of Marine Drive

3km of promenade make this an ideal location for a relaxing walk. As the sun sets local Mumbians come down for a gentle stroll and see the lights along the bay. This is locally known as the Queen’s necklace due to its similarity of a series of diamonds on a necklace. It is also a good place for an easy, slow, evening jog in the cooling air.

Introduction of India

The second-most populated country in the world and certainly one of the most spiritual, India has a rich heritage which continues to attract travellers from across the world. The most spiritual destinations are in the Himalayan North, where the scenic mountains are home to some of the most important religious places in the country. To the south, the Plains region hosts the country's capital, New Delhi, as well as one of its most iconic symbols, the Taj Mahal. India's rapid rise on the world economic stage has led to the unstoppable growth of Mumbai. While its crowded pavements and horrific traffic may be too much for some, the city remains one of the world's most vibrant. Continuing south, those looking for a more traditional package holiday might prefer to visit Goa. Goa hosts some of the most accessible India hotels, beautiful beaches as well as quaint villages which tell the story of its Portuguese heritage. Thanks to its pleasant climate, the far south is a year-round destination. The indigenous culture differs greatly from the north, but its best attractions centre on nature, with Tamil Nadu's hill stations and Kerala's scenic coastline featuring heavily on many tourist itineraries.